Page 47 of The Advocate’s Ultimatum

Ethan was quiet for a moment. “That’s a big assumption,” he said finally.

“No. It’s experience.”

“What if the threat is real?”

“Then we deal with it without giving them what they want.”

Ethan rubbed his jaw. “Bay says she’ll be killed. The text said the same thing. You can’t just walk away.”

“I’m not walking away from her,” Sabre countered. “I’m walking away from being controlled.”

“So, where does that leave Bay?” he asked.

“With you, on record. And with me as advisor. Bay needs an attorney who’s making decisions freely, not reacting to threats.”

“And you think that’s me?”

“I think you’re capable,” she said. “And I think you still believe the system works.”

Ethan gave a small, almost reluctant smile. “Most days.”

“Good,” Sabre said. “She needs that right now. And you heard what Hammouri said. She’s not happy with Bay’s attitude, and she does not like to be bullied. She’s not going to let her choose.”

“Do you think the judge has made up her mind?”

“I do. I know her pretty well. This is her way of letting us off the hook. Well, me at least. If she makes the decision, Bay will have to stop her manipulation.”

He shifted his weight. “And what about you?”

“I’ll help if you want me to.”

Ethan raised an eyebrow slightly. “In what capacity?”

“Whatever you need,” she said. “Strategy, background, anything I can do from the outside.”

“But not on record, or as co-counsel? And not advising the client directly?”

Sabre shook her head. “Only with you present,” she said. “Your case. Your call.”

Ethan watched her for another moment.

“You trust me with it?”

“Yes. I do.” Sabre paused.

“Do you think Bay is Hannah?” Vale asked.

“I can’t be certain, but I don’t think so. My gut tells me no, but I could be wrong.”

“All right,” Vale said. “Let’s go see what Bay has to say.”

Chapter 16

Wednesday late morning

Bay was already inside the interview room, seated on the bench. Sabre stepped in first. Vale followed, closing the door behind them, and they sat in the folding chairs on their side of the plexiglass.

Bay’s eyes locked on Sabre again.